Saxophone Forum

Growl Sound

Have, by sheer luck, come across a metal mouthpiece (no specs) that yields a Gato Barbieri like sound. Would really appreciate any tips on how one would enhance the growling (raspy?) sound that you hear in some jazz/rock players. Thanks.

Re: Growl Sound

Re: Growl Sound

Make a low growl from your voicebox. Impersonate an angry lion or the rumble of a harley. Without horn. Now with. Do not tighten or alter emb. at all. Yesterday (hard reeds ), i was going to mention breathing from the diaphram, and the importance of an open throat...important in a growl. With all respect, maybe spend a while getting to know the m.p.'s sound and character first. Anyhow....growling. Real easy....good trick......dont overuse it....later.

Re: Growl Sound

Make a low growl from your voicebox. Impersonate an angry lion or the rumble of a harley. Without horn. Now with. Do not tighten or alter emb. at all. Yesterday (hard reeds ), i was going to mention breathing from the diaphram, and the importance of an open throat...important in a growl. With all respect, maybe spend a while getting to know the m.p.'s sound and character first. Anyhow....growling. Real easy....good trick......dont overuse it....later.

Re: Growl Sound

Re: Growl Sound

You are welcome. Do not concern too much about the open throat. It is a somewhat advanced thing. Do though concentrate on breathing from dia....a constant and controlled passage of wind......essential. Do you have a teacher man? I ask, as it would not be cool to confuse my opinions with facts. None of it is a science however.....opinions are all we have

Re: Growl Sound

You are welcome. Do not concern too much about the open throat. It is a somewhat advanced thing. Do though concentrate on breathing from dia....a constant and controlled passage of wind......essential. Do you have a teacher man? I ask, as it would not be cool to confuse my opinions with facts. None of it is a science however.....opinions are all we have

Re: Growl Sound

Had an outstanding teacher many years ago. For classic alto in Woodwind Quartet. Am now trying to re-invent as jazz tenor player. Long story.
F**k science - and facts - this is ART. I place a hgih value on your input and think it's cool you take the time to help.